POGROM PERSECUTION

This is the root of our hope: God is with us, God still trusts us! God comes to dwell with men, choosing the Earth as his home, to be with man himself, and so He can be found there where man, spends his days in joy or in pain. Therefore, earth is no longerjust a valley of tears, but is the place where God himself, has pitched His tent, it is the meeting place between God and men, of solidarity between God and men.Pope Francis, AsiaNews wishes all its readers an happy and Holy Christmas 2014,With an happy New Year 2015, "Family on the run" by Mauro Valsangiacomo (Chiasso - CH, 1950 -) gift to the campaign "Adopt a Christian from Mosul"==================

=====================IRAQ - VATICANAs 'Adopt a Christian from Mosul' continues, Mosul bishop notes that Jesus is born amid refugee containersby Amel NonaPersecuted by the Islamic state, refugees have lost everything: belongings, home, jobs, school, and their future. Yet, their faith and mission remain strong. For them, almost 900,000 euros have been raised and sent. Pope Francis sends a message of closeness. The campaign continues according to the Patriarch of Baghdad's proposal of fasting and moderation at Christmas and New Year, with the money saved offered to the Christians of Mosul.IRAQChaldean Patriarch calls for fasting on Christmas Eve for refugees' return to Mosulby Joseph MahmoudMar Louis Sako calls on the faithful not to celebrate Christmas and New Year in a "worldly" fashion, with pomp and abundance, out of solidarity with the people who fled the Nineveh plains, persecuted by the Islamic Army. AsiaNews is joining the fast proposed by the Patriarch and calls on all readers to give what they would have otherwise spent in support of the campaign 'Adopt a Christian from Mosul'.DossierPope Francis in the Holy Land

The Ukrainian Crisis[Show all dossier]Top 1012/17/2014 INDIARadical Hindus attack Christians singing Christmas carolsby Nirmala Carvalho12/14/2014 VATICANOn the "Sunday of Joy", pope gives a prayer booklet, telling the faithful to "always carry it"12/13/2014 IRAQChaldean Patriarch calls for fasting on Christmas Eve for refugees' return to Mosulby Joseph Mahmoud12/16/2014 IRAQ - VATICANAs 'Adopt a Christian from Mosul' continues, Mosul bishop notes that Jesus is born amid refugee containersby Amel Nona12/17/2014 INDONESIACentral Java, Islamist threat: Scrap Christmas symbols and no celebrationsby Mathias Hariyadi12/15/2014 CAMBODIAChristmas for Vuon, a Cambodian who converted and beat illness thanks to Jesusby Luca Bolelli12/15/2014 VATICANPope: the heart of Christians "is built on the rock" and not "plastered over" in a "cast" of discipline"12/17/2014 MIDDLE EAST - ISLAMSecularism, Sunni-Shia divide, and the Islamic state are wiping out Christians from the Middle Eastby Fady Noun12/15/2014 VIETNAM - VATICANThe soon to be Saint Father Diep, Vietnamese priest and martyr honored even by non-Christians12/13/2014 VATICANPope tells Union of Blind and Sight-impaired Persons that Saint Lucy teaches courage, community, and self-giving====================12/20/2014 IRAQChaldean Patriarch: on Christmas, Christian refugees should not feel "abandoned" or "forgotten"by Joseph MahmoudAhead of Christmas celebrations, Mar Sako issued a message to the Christian community that fled the Islamic state. Understandably, Christians are "concerned" about the loss of homes and jobs, but they should keep the "hope for a future of "peace and coexistence" alive. His Beatitude calls on the faithful to pray to keep courage alive and expressed gratitude for the help provided so far.Erbil (AsiaNews) - Chaldean Patriarch Raphael I Mar Louis Sako issued a Christmas statement addressed to Iraq's Christian, especially its refugees who abandoned their homes following the advance of Islamic State fighters. In it, the prelate tried...12/20/2014 VATICANPope: the most dangerous misery is "the presumption that we can do without God"According to such blind misery, material wealth, the quest for power and pleasure, and the enslavement of others to achieve these goals, are the purpose of existence. 12/20/2014 ISRAEL - PALESTINEGaza: Israel launches airstrike in response to rocket fired from the Gaza StripThis morning Israel's Air Force carried out an airstrike, the first since a truce between Israel and Hamas was brokered last August. No casualties or damages have been reported. An Israeli military spokesman said that the "Hamas terror infrastructure" was hit. Hamas did not claim responsibility for yesterday's rocket.12/20/2014 CHINAMongolian rights activist Hada released after 20 yearsConsidered a prisoner of conscience by major human rights groups, he slams Chinese authorities for torturing him and for persecuting his family. He said he would "continue to fight against the oppression of the Mongolian nationality". Like Tibet and Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia has suffered for decades from the arrival of Han Chinese settlers, whose immigration is undermining local traditions and beliefs. 12/20/2014 INDONESIABogor: apostolic nuncio ordains 12 priests and deacons to pray and serve the communityby Mathias HariyadiHundreds of faithful flocked to the Holy Family Parish Church in Cibinong. Mgr Filipazzi stressed that the priesthood is a service that requires obedience and holiness. Priestly vestments should not feed "personal ambitions" but encourage to "preach the Gospel and bring God to the people."12/20/2014 BANGLADESHChristmas carols competition held to keep Bangladeshi kids away from drugs and alcoholby Sumon CorrayaOrganised by MAGIS Bangla, a Jesuit-run youth group, the singing competition attracted 13 groups. A girls' school took away the first prize. 12/19/2014 SRI LANKA - LAOSSri Lanka activists tell UN to find the truth about Laotian dissident Sombath Somphone's fateby Melani Manel PereraThe human rights activist was seized in 2012. The members of the Asian Federation against Disappearances (AFAD) organised a peaceful protest in member countries: Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal.12/19/2014 LEBANON - SYRIASyrian refugees in Lebanon face new challenge, children "without citizenship or rights"UN agencies and NGOs warn that more and more children born in families fleeing the war are likely to remain stateless. Some 70 per cent of the 42,000 children born in Lebanon to Syrian parents since the outbreak of the conflict have not been registered. However, the figure could be far higher. Poverty and lack of identity papers aggravate the problem. 12/19/2014 INDIAFor Christian leaders, the government needs to rid itself of Hindu radicals because India is not a theocracyThe archbishop of Delhi and other members of the Christian clergy sign a statement on the situation of religious freedom in the country. "In a secular and democratic India, there is no place for a state religion. Religion has no place in the national political discourse." Grieving over the victims of the Peshawar attack, they note that such violence is "evidence of the dangers of fanaticism".12/19/2014 JAPANWith empty cradles, Japan needs to boost birth rate, govt saysShinzo Abe's government released a draft plan to halt the decline of the Japanese population. Without a higher birth rate, health care and retirement systems are no longer viable. The draft plan includes two parts, a long-term vision and a comprehensive strategy to boost births. 12/19/2014 MALAYSIAChristmas in Malaysia, a moment of "celebration and sharing" for Christians and MuslimsThe archbishop of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah recited the inaugural prayer. The event provided an opportunity for people to come together in unity, harmony and prosperity. For the tenth anniversary, organisers chose as motto 'The Star of Great Joy,' Jesus who brings peace. For a State minister, the festivity shows "good relations between people of different faith and ethnicity".12/19/2014 VATICANFor pope, even to non-believers the crèche and the Christmas tree "speak of fraternity, intimacy and friendship"This afternoon Francesco inaugurated the crèche and Christmas tree in St Peter's Square as well as the new lighting on the façade and the dome of St Peter's Basilica. 12/19/2014 VATICANPope: May the Church "allow itself be surprised by the Holy Spirit", it is not an entrepreneur but a mother"From sterility, the Lord is able to restart a new lineage, a new life. And that is the message of today. When humanity is exhausted and can no longer go forward, grace comes, and when the Son comes Salvation comes. And that exhausted Creation gives way to a new creation... ".12/19/2014 SOUTH KOREASeoul, the Constitutional Court bans a Political Party: "Dictatorship is back"Chief judges have accepted the Government's demands and imposed the dissolution of the Unified Progressive Party, accused of carrying out "pro-North Korea" policies. The Party's five elected MPs have been forced to resign: they will be banned from political life "for at least five years." The Party leader speaks of a "return of dictatorship", concern among international observers. 12/19/2014 MACAU - HONG KONG - CHINAOccupy effect: umbrellas banned during Xi Jinping's visit to Macau (despite the rain)by Paul WangHong Kong activists were expelled from the former Portuguese colony. At the Macau Ferry Pier, people opened their umbrellas to demand freedom for all Chinese political prisoners. Opponents to Occupy are up (plus 9 per cent, to 38). Some 43.1 per cent are opposed to China's electoral reform. At least 1.2 million people took part in the Occupy protest.

03/21/2014KOREAAs it gets ready for a papal visit, Korea rediscovers its early encounter with the Christian faithFollowing the announcement that Pope Francis will visit the country, Koreans, including non-Christians, are debating the teachings of the Gospel and the religion's first coming in the country during the period of persecution under the Joseon kingdom. A government site posts excerpts from the first catechism, written in the 18th century by a courtly scholar commenting the works of Matteo Ricci.

03/15/2014PAKISTANAsia Bibi's appeal to be heard by Lahore High CourtAfter more than four years in prison, sentenced to death without trial for "blasphemy", the Pakistani Christian will appear before High Court judges in two days time. The Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement, which has taken up her case, appeals to the court to "not give in to pressure from fundamentalists and make sure that justice wins out".

03/14/2014MYANMARMyanmar government excludes Rohingya from censusThe 800,000 or so members of the Muslim minority will be included in the "Other" category. For the director general of the Department on Population, the Rohingya will not be able to identify themselves as such. The country's first census in 30 years will run from 30 March to 10 April.

03/11/2014KOREA - VATICANFrancis in Korea, five days for young people and for peace in AsiaThe program of the papal visit is not yet official, but several sources tell AsiaNews that in addition to the Asian Youth Day and the beatification of the 124 Korean martyrs, the Pope will visit a home for the disabled and homeless, the birthplace of St. Andrew Kim Taegon and the fortress where the first Korean Catholics were martyred. A planned visit to the "Cathedral of Reconciliation " in Paju, on the border with the North.

03/10/2014TURKEYPan-Orthodox Assembly issues final communiqué NAT da PolisAnnouncement sets dates and stages of 2016 Pan-Orthodox Synod. Participants express solidarity with the people of Syria and persecuted Christians, and make an appeal for the release of all hostages. They pray reconciliation in Ukraine. Faced with the world's economic and moral crisis, the Churches respond by bearing spiritual witness to the faith and defending human dignity, the relationship between men and women, and the environment.

03/05/2014PAKISTANPakistani Christians fast and pray for peace and persecuted minorities Jibran Khan Every church in the country holds special services for Ash Wednesday. The Diocese of Lahore and Rawalpindi issues a message of peace and harmony. For priest in Lahore, this is a propitious time to refrain from the world's temptations. In Sialkot, thoughts go to Christians "persecuted for their faith."

03/04/2014VATICANPope: Remember that among Christians "there are more martyrs today than in the early days of the Church""The world does not tolerate the divinity of Christ. It doesn't tolerate the announcement of the Gospel. It does not tolerate the Beatitudes". "They are condemned because they have a Bible. They can not make the sign of the Cross", "they can not go to Mass, because it is forbidden". How often "does a priest come in secret, among them, they pretend they are having a meal, taking tea and there they celebrate Mass", "so they will not see them".

02/25/2014SOUTH KOREAFor Card Yeom, the Korean Church is committed to offering Asia and the world the fruits of the Gospel"When we hugged each other to exchange the peace," the Archbishop of Seoul said, the pope "told me suddenly that he loves Korea. I answered him right away that [. . .] we too love him. [. . .] Now let us pray and hope for a [papal] visit to our country." The pastoral and missionary challenges faced by Korean Catholics must go "through love." The prelate renews his commitment to life, which is under attack throughout East Asia.

02/22/2014VATICANPope: Church asks new cardinals for "communion", "courage", "witness", "prayer" and "compassion"Benedict XVI also present in St. Peter's as Francis "creates" 18 new cardinals. In a few days they will be joined Msgr. Loris Capovilla, who was absent due to poor health. "Jesus did not come to teach a philosophy, an ideology… but rather "a way", a journey to be undertaken with him, and we learn the way as we go, by walking". Spiritual closeness to the ecclesial communities and to all Christians suffering from discrimination and persecution".

02/20/2014LAOSCensorship, abductions and abuses: Laos is Southeast Asia's "most repressive" regimeActivists slam Laos for having a "very dictatorial, rights-repressing government" in terms of civil rights and individual liberties. Sombath Somphone's disappearance is warning to all activists and opponents of the regime. A Lao citizen confirms that no one can talk about politics or criticise the ruling Communist Party. Even religion is under tight state control.

02/19/2014CHINACommunist Party's investigates former security czar's right hand manAnalysts and experts agree that the rope is tightening around Zhou Yongkang, China's top internal security forces chief for a decade and the inventor of the modern Chinese repression. However, the Xi Jinping administration has tried to gather evidence on Zhou but it is unclear if the findings would be made public.

02/14/2014INDIAUS Christian missionary arrested in India Nirmala CarvalhoRev David Grant, a pastor with the Evangelical Assemblies of God World Missions, is accused of breaking visa rules. For the president of the Global Council of Indian Christians (GCIC), his arrest underscores the unequal treatment reserved for Christian clergymen, who are often subjected to "threats, abuse and arrests."

02/06/2014VATICANPope's Message for WYD 2014: The poor in spirit, revolutionary, strong and happy Papa FrancescoThe full text of the Message for World Youth Day, to be celebrated on 13 April next . The theme: "Blessed are the poor in spirit , for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" ( Mt 5:3 ) . John Paul II, who will be canonized a few days after WYD, called "the patron of World Youth Day, which he inaugurated and always supported."

02/05/2014CHINADissident's father dies after falling from building, "suicide" according to policeAfter fleeing a 'black jail,' Xue Fushun, father of pro-democracy activist Xue Mingkai, sought refuge at a Procuratorate building seeking protection against police persecution against his family. For his wife and son, he did not commit suicide, but was deliberately murdered. Chinese dissidents express their support in an open letter that slams the authorities for "human rights violations".

02/04/2014VATICAN - KOREAPeace with the North, youth and martyrs on pope's agenda in KoreaPope Francis' trip to the Korean Peninsula is "pretty sure", this according to Vatican sources. In addition to activities related to Asian Youth Day, the beatification of the 124 Korean martyrs and a special Mass for the reunification of the two Koreas are also planned.

01/30/2014IRAQMar Sako, a year as Patriarch: unity, dialogue and mission, the challenges of the Chaldean Church Joseph MahmoudIn a pastoral letter His Beatitude recounts the first year at the helm of the Chaldeans , and presents guidelines for the future. He does not forget the difficulties, the exodus of Christians and sectarian violence. The call to revive "the original charism" that helps believers to really live the "gift" of faith. The hope of peace and thoughts for our "brothers and sisters" in Syria and Lebanon.

01/28/2014VIETNAMHanoi, date set for Catholic lawyer and dissident, Le Quoc Quan's appeal Appeal set for next February 8. The lawyer was sentenced to 30 months for "tax evasion" , but sentence really motivated by his activism critical of the Communist Party and the government. "Satisfactory" health conditions. Only permitted "official" newspapers to read in his cell, forbidden the Bible.

01/21/2014SRI LANKA - PAKISTANPakistani Christians ask for Church help to get political asylum in Sri Lanka Melani Manel PereraAt least 200 refugees, including more than 50 children, have been stranded in Negombo for nearly three years. UNHCR authorities have not yet recognised their rights as refugees. The inability to get an education and crime are their most serious problems. "In Pakistan, we are treated like enemies," some young people said, "but as Christians, there is no peace in our country."

01/20/2014MYANMARYangon archbishop: from unity comes the baptism of a new Myanmar Francis Khoo Thwe In a message issued for the "Week of prayer for Christian Unity", Mgr Bo calls for unity and cooperation among the country's many components. He also pleads for the defence of the weak and the oppressed, urging Christians to rediscover unity and transcend theological and liturgical differences. The prelate calls for the return of schools and assets seized from Burmese Church in the past.

01/17/2014CHINABeijing, Uyghur academic Ilham Tohti arrested without chargesIlham Tohti, 45, is a professor of economics at Beijing University. About 30 public security officials entered his house, dragged him away and seized his computers and telephones. His wife: "Arrested in other circumstances, but it is different this time". The professor is known for his articles in defense of ethnicity, accused by the government of covering Islamic terrorism in China.

01/14/2014INDIAEvangelical clergyman stabbed to death in Andhra PradeshFour unknown men visited the home of Rev Sanjeevulu, head of the 'Friends of Hebron.' After beating beat him and stabbing him seven times, they also attacked his wife, who managed to escape. Christians who asked for justice were arrested by the authorities. "Although the motive of the attack is not yet known," said a Christian leader, "It could be premeditated murder."

01/13/2014VATICANPope: not just war, but "every denial of human dignity" wounds peaceIn his speech to diplomats, Pope Francis hopes for an end to conflict in Syria, Lebanon and expresses concern for Iraq, prayers for the reunification of the Koreas, openness to China, the African drama and violence against Christians. The lack of a "culture of encounter" and the "waste" of people deemed "unnecessary", such as the elderly or children who are aborted. The "greedy exploitation of natural resources".

01/11/2014VIETNAM Vietnamese Jesuits mark 400 years of mission with a solemn MassThe Holy Year ends on 18 January 2015, exactly four centuries after the Jesuits set foot in the country for the first time. In order to mark the occasion, they set up a website listing all major events associated with the anniversary. One of the aims of the commemoration is the spiritual renewal of the members of the Society of Jesus and those who have adopted its charism.

01/09/2014VIETNAMVietnamese police block Buddhist Memorial Day celebrationsMore than a hundred agents are "intercepting, harassing and intimidating" monks, nuns and ordinary members of the Unified Buddhist Church of Vietnam, denying access to the Long Quang Pagoda in Hue. Those who are arrested have come from various parts of the country to join the celebration.

12/20/2013ITALY - ASIAThe joy of the Gospel and Christmas Bernardo CervelleraPope Francis's apostolic exhortation is a great comfort for those who seek to build bridges to each other, without fear of going against public feelings. The "mild light of Christ" can confound and ultimately cancel the artificial light of the world. Best wishes from AsiaNews to its readers and friends; that they may "work" with the Saviour who is born.

12/19/2013VIETNAMFor Vinh Bishop, jail and campaigns of lies will not stop the Church's missionFor Mgr Paul Nguyen Thai Hop, the Catholic community is trying to participate actively and with "enthusiasm" to the "New Evangelisation". Although the authorities have attacked the diocese, the faithful "are not afraid," showing instead "strong faith and unity." Our goals, said the prelate, remain "dialogue, peace, love and forgiveness."

12/16/2013INDIAAncient Mumbai crucifix desecrated. Card Gracias : A wound for the entire population Nirmala CarvalhoUnknown assailants pulled the statue of Jesus from the cross and smashed it to pieces. The incident occurred in the district of Vile Parle , near the church of St. Francis Xavier, where 37 children were preparing to receive their First Holy Communion . The archbishop of Mumbai describes it as an "attack on the tolerance , harmony and diversity that characterize our beloved city ." Last September, another church was desecrated in Mumbai .

12/12/2013INDONESIA - ISLAMSociety against the government over religion on ID papers Mathias HariyadiParliament's decision to include holder's religious affiliation in identity papers sparks widespread criticism. For many, the inclusion will lead to persecution and abuse, especially of those who do not belong to any of the recognised faiths. According to research by the Setara Institute, the Ahmadi sect has endured the most with 46 attacks out of 122 incidents recorded in the first six months of 2013.

12/11/2013INDIAKarnataka, Christmas sees return of Hindu fundamentalist persecution Two women were arrested for distributing leaflets about Christianity . A mob of extremists threaten to launch a mass protest , to punish "those who practice conversions". President of the Global Council of Indian Christians (GCIC ), tells AsiaNews: "A shameful attack, as planned nationalist forces step up pressure on Christians at Christmas".

11/26/2013VATICANPope: "A missionary and pastoral conversion" for a Church open to changing its structures Franco PisanoThe Apostolic Exhortation " Evangelii Gaudium". Evangelization, the programmatic manifesto of the papacy, must find "new paths" and "creative methods" . A "healthy decentralization". An economic system "unjust at its roots". "Authentic attacks on religious freedom". "There is an inseparable link between our faith and the poor ". " No one can demand from us that we relegate religion to the secret intimacy of the individual". Islamic countries must "ensure freedom to Christians to worship and live their faith."

11/22/2013MYANMAR - UNITED NATIONSArchbishop of Yangon : Interreligious dialogue is the only way to solve the Rohingya drama Francis Khoo ThweAfter the UN's appeal, staunchly rejected by the Burmese government with NLD approval, the issue of citizenship for Rohingya takes centre stage. Msgr . Bo says it is a sensitive issue and points to the need to distinguish "case by case " . Speaking to AsiaNews calls for a "serious discussion" and a major confrontation between religious leaders. Teaching of religion in school fundamental.

11/20/2013INDIA - UNITED STATESChristian leader: religious freedom is central to the dialogue between Washington and New Delhi Nirmala CarvalhoThe president of the Global Council of Indian Christians (GCIC) backs a bipartisan US resolution concerning relations between the two countries. The United States is "concerned" about the violations of freedom of religion. India's political parties and religious organisations must "publicly oppose the exploitation of religious differences and denounce harassment and violence against religious minorities, especially in the run-up to India's general elections in 2014."

11/19/2013JAPAN - VATICANFor Nagasaki bishop, the Year of Faith has brought good results, now we are waiting for Francis Joseph Yun Li-sunArchbishop Takami concelebrated Mass with the Pope in Santa Marta. "I told him about our invitation to him to visit the country. He did not answer outright, but he was very satisfied. Let's hope he comes because his example has brought many Christians back to the Church. Even non-Christians in Japan follow him, impressed by his example and his words."

11/18/2013INDIAFor Indian Christian leader, Narendra Modi is a threat to religious freedom Nirmala CarvalhoThis is the conclusion reached by Sajan George, president of Global Council of Indian Christians (GCIC) following certain statements made by Modi, the prime ministerial candidate of the Hindu ultra-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who said that that he likes Karnataka's "saffron wave". Saffron is the colour of radical Hindus, and the state has one of the worst records in terms of the persecution of religious minorities.

11/17/2013VATICANPope: Many Christians worldwide suffer for their faith, I am close to them with admiration and prayerAt the Sunday Angelus, Francis speaks of Jesus 'discourse ' about the end of time" and in unscripted remarks recalls the "brothers and sisters in many parts of the world who are still persecuted for their fidelity to Jesus. There are many, perhaps more than in the first centuries, we are close to them with our hearts and prayers". After the Marian prayer, the Pope announces the distribution of Misericordina in the square : a small box containing a Rosary , "spiritual medicine" 59 beaded steps that "is good for all of our lives ."

11/11/2013PAKISTANLahore: life of Christian pastor accused of blasphemy in danger Jibran KhanAn outlawed extremist organisation, Jamat-ul-Dawa, issues a fatwa against Adnan Masih. As a result of a misunderstanding, the Christian man has been accused of insulting Muhammad and Islam. As police investigates, the clergyman and his family are under their protection. A local priest notes that this is "the third case of persecution against Christians based on the blasphemy law in just two months."

11/08/2013SRI LANKADesmond Tutu says no to Commonwealth meeting to stop violations in Sri Lanka Melani Manel PereraThe Anglican Archbishop and Nobel Peace Prize laureate calls on Commonwealth leaders to boycott the meeting summit in Colombo on 15-17 November. For Archbishop Tutu, this would put pressure on Rajapaksa and his government to address outstanding issues like forced abductions, war crimes against Tamils, and media repression.

11/04/2013CHINAXinjiang: General in charge of security removed after attack on Tiananmen The authorities have removed Yong Peng from official duties. The decision after the terrorist attack on the heart of Beijing, which the Party claims is the work of Uyghurs from the western province. Analysts in agreement that the only independence movement left "unable to plan such attacks ."

11/01/2013VATICANPope: the Saints tell us to trust the Lord and not be afraid to go against the tideOn the Solemnity of All Saints, Pope Francis reminds us that "life's goal is not death" but heaven. The saints are not supermen, but ordinary people who lived following Jesus; people who loved others instead of hating them, in the spirit of the beatitudes. This afternoon, the Pope will celebrate Mass at the Verano cemetery and pray especially for Christians who died "because of persecution."

10/31/2013ITALY - MYANMAR Aung San Suu Kyi tells AsiaNews that peace and unity are the way to a democratic Burma Dario SalviIn an exclusive interview with AsiaNews, the Nobel Prize laureate calls for true "equality" among Burma's citizens in order to further the country's development. The people of Burma can overcome ethnic and religious conflicts through "hard work", following the path indicated by religious leaders, thus taking "responsibility to bring about peace."

10/29/2013PAKISTAN Karachi: Christian family faced with blasphemy and forced conversion threats Jibran KhanIn September, the head of the family, Boota Masih, a 58-yeaer-old goldsmith, was killed, falsely accused of blasphemy. In fact, a business rival was behind the murder, and he is still free and unpunished. Meanwhile, armed men have threatened the victim's family, telling them to convert to Islam or face death. Police however have arrested these men.

10/22/2013NEPALHindu outcastes find comfort in Pope Francis and the Bible Kalpit ParajuliA growing number of non-Christians are drawn to Catholicism because of the principles of equality and dignity upheld by the Church. Reading the Bible and Pope Francis' words are playing a crucial role in this, as they did on World Mission Sunday. Forced to change her surname to escape persecution, a convert tells her story.

10/18/2013VATICAN - JEWSCatholics and Jews call on the world to ensure full respect for religious freedomIn a joint communiqué issued at the end of its 22nd meeting, the International Catholic-Jewish Liaison Committee condemns the rise of anti-Christian persecution and anti-Semitism. The committee also called attention to the need "to guarantee full citizenship to all citizens regardless of religious or ethnic identity in the Middle East", and for Catholics and Jews to deepen their mutual understanding.

10/11/2013ASIAAsiaNews Symposium:The Christians' mission for the future good of AsiaThe vast fresco outlined by Card. Pell and the words of Card. Filoni show that in Aisa, in the midst of many positives and negatives, there is a strong search for the religious and a great future for the Church. The importance of the third sector stressed by Prof. Caloia . For Fr. Samir it is possible to defeat Islamic fundamentalism (without weapons ) . The mission in Asia is still only just beginning.

10/11/2013VATICANPope: under no pretext should forms of intolerance and anti-Semitism be allowed to come backIn receiving a delegation from the Jewish Community of Rome, Francis remembered the 70th anniversary of the deportation of 1943. "We know how many religious institutions, monasteries and Papal Basilicas, interpreting the will of the Pope, opened their doors in a brotherly welcome, and how many ordinary Christians offered what help they could give, however big or small."

10/11/2013MYANMARBurmese religious leaders: fight poverty to stop sectarian violence Francis Khoo ThweThis is what an interfaith conference on peace held in Yangon said in its final statement. Leaders from five major religions call for better education to strengthen "national identity" in a multi-religious setting, and the recognition of the "need for frequent discussion [. . .] among the leaders of different faiths in a spirit of mutual respect".

10/05/2013ITALY - IRAQChaldean Patriarch : The martyrdom , charisma and gift of the Iraqi Church Joseph MahmoudAt the conference for peace promoted by the Community of Sant'Egidio , Mar Sako stresses that martyrdom " is not an ideology or aim ," but " an everyday reality " of testimony. His Beatitude invites "persecuted Christians " to renew " their faith and their commitment " and stresses the value of their presence in the Middle East as a "sign of hope and peace."

10/02/2013VIETNAMHanoi: 30 months in prison sentence for the Catholic lawyer Le Quoc Quan J.B. An DangHe will also have to pay a fine of more than $50,000. The Court convicted him of tax evasion. The hearing lasted for a couple of hours and ended with the expected guilty sentence. Outside, thousands of police officers and government-hired thugs prevented entry into the courtroom to supporters of the activist.

10/02/2013RUSSIAMufti of Russia : Dialogue is the only weapon for peace in Syria Marta AllevatoVice president of the Council of Muftis of Russia, Rushan Abbyasov , says we must defend the Christian presence in the Middle Eastern country . Muslim community " is the victim of a media attack" in Russia and worldwide. "Prospective" of seeing the Pope in Moscow. A conversation with AsiaNews .

10/01/2013BANGLADESHBangladesh: War Court sentences to death a member of the nationalist party Sumon CorrayaThe Court has deemed the member of parliament Salahuddin Quader Chowdhury guilty of crimes against humanity during the war of independence. He is the first member of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party to be tried by these courts: previously only Islamic party leaders been convicted.

10/01/2013INDIAPogrom of Orissa, 7 innocent Christians convicted with false accusations Nirmala CarvalhoThe Court will issue the ruling on 3 October. The convicted Christians are held responsible for the murder of Hindu leader Laxamananda Saraswati, who unleashed the violent anti-Christian persecutions of 2008. The Maoists have claimed responsibility for the murder from the beginning, but the state authorities have always ignored the admission of liability.

10/01/2013SOUTH KOREAColumba Kang, the catechist of Korean martyrs Joseph Yun Li-sunAmong the faithful were martyred in the nineteenth century in Korea stands the figure of a woman, Columba Kang Wan-suk, who faced the risk of persecution in order to help spread the Gospel. Arriving with unwavering faith until martyrdom. AsiaNews presents the life and work of these witnesses of Christ waiting for canonization.

09/27/2013VIETNAM - VATICANSaigon : Thousands pay tribute to memory of future blessed Card. Văn Thuận Nguyen Hung11 years after his death , Ho Chi Minh City hosts a solemn ceremony in memory of the Vietnamese cardinal . The prelate "practiced the Catholic virtues in a heroic way" and is an example for today's faithful , who suffer persecution. Projection of images of his life ahead of Mass.

09/25/2013CHINAWei Jingsheng: Anti-blogger laws worse than Cultural Revolution Wei JingshengThe great Chinese dissident comments on latest repressions imposed by the government of Xi Jinping on freedom of expression and attacks the communist regime, interested only in safeguarding their privileges while continuing to violate the rights of the people: "They are even more brazen faced than Mao Zedong."

09/24/2013INDIA - PAKISTANPune bishop: Christian massacre in Peshawar, a failure of the Pakistani government Nirmala CarvalhoMgr Thomas Dabre has decided that all the parishes in his diocese will devote next Sunday Mass to the victims of the attack in Pakistan. "The integrity and moral authority of a nation," he said, "depend on its firm commitment to ensuring the rule of law and defending its minorities." Religious freedom "is an inalienable human right."

09/24/2013VATICANPope: "Migrants and refugees are not pawns on the chessboard of humanity"" Migrants and Refugees: Towards a Better World" is the theme chosen by Francis for the Day that will be celebrated on January 19. In his message, the Pope writes that when faced with a phenomenon of unprecedented proportions calls for international cooperation and a spirit of profound solidarity and compassion", "close collaboration between the migrants' countries of origin and their countries of destination" and " , the elimination of prejudices and presuppositions in the approach to migration", "to see, and then to enable others to see, that migrants and refugees do not only represent a problem to be solved, but are brothers and sisters to be welcomed, respected and loved. They are an occasion that Providence gives us to help build a more just society, a more perfect democracy, a more united country, a more fraternal world and a more open and evangelical Christian community. "

09/23/2013EGYPTDelga: after Islamist attacks, Mass is backHundreds of Christian families who had fled the city attended the service in the small chapel located inside what is left of the Anba Abraam monastery devastated by extremist attacks. The army liberated the village on 18 September after more than a month of Islamist occupation.

09/21/2013SOUTH KOREAThe example of the Korean martyrs, to build a better Church Joseph Yun Li-sunYesterday the Catholics of the South celebrated the liturgical memorial of Saint Andrew Kim Taegon, the first native priest, and his fellow martyrs . Bishop of Daejeon : "We prayed that their example give rise to a continuous drive to good ."

09/20/2013ASIAInternational Symposium on Asia, 10 years of AsiaNewsIn recent years, Asia has become the "centre" of the world. With its load of successes and moments of persecution, the Church's mission focuses on human-centred development. We celebrate the 10th anniversary of our agency, a small tool of mission and peace for the Asian continent.

09/20/2013MYANMARDalai Lama to Burmese monks : Enough anti- Rohingya violence The Tibetan spiritual leader recalls the teachings of the Buddha and appeals to the Burmese monks : no more attacks and violence against "your Muslim brothers and sisters ." Aung San Suu Kyi calls for amendments to the Constitution to solve the ethnic problem . In the sixth anniversary of the Saffron Revolution monks call on authorities to apologize .

09/18/2013EGYPTCurfew in Delga, a Islamist-held town where Christians cannot liveThis morning, the army entered some of the town's districts only thanks to air cover. The Muslim Brotherhood and Salafists had taken it over on 14 August. Because Islamists are heavily armed, the army and police waited for reinforcements before moving in. half of the town's 20,000 Christians have fled after churches and homes were torched or demolished. Those left have to pay jizya, a tax for unbelievers last levied under Ottoman rule.

09/18/2013VIETNAMBishop of Vinh concerned by regime attacks, appeals for international supportIn an interview with AsiaNews , Msgr . Paul Nguyen Thai Hop speaks of "a dangerous and worrying situation" for the Christians of the diocese, who are under the scrutiny of the Vietnamese authorities. He calls for the respect of human rights and the release of jailed parishioners. He also calls for " solidarity and support " for an end to " lies and slander ."

09/17/2013VIETNAMVinh : Catholics say Mass and prayers against Vietnamese authorities' calumnies J.B. An DangBishops, priests and thousands of faithful attended the function in the sanctuary of St. Anthony. A celebration that "challenges" governmental bans and impositions on worship. Bishop of Vinh : " The authorities continue to spread false information." The Catholic community turns out in defense of the prelate .

09/16/2013VIETNAMVietnamese Government and State TV launch fresh attacks on Bishop of Vinh J.B. An DangA 10 minute report aired last night made slanderous accusations against Msgr. Paul Nguyen Thai Hop and the local Catholic community . The prelate is charged with leading a revolt , exploiting a story to create legal cases of religious persecution . Diocesan website risks closure. Vietnamese Catholics at home and abroad united in defense of the prelate.

09/14/2013LAOSLaotian authorities take aim at Christian families with threats of expulsion and abuseEleven families in a village in the central province of Bolikhamsai risk expulsion because they converted to Christianity. Their village chief told them to return to their traditional religion, but they refused, choosing instead to continue to worship as they wish. A struggle for religious freedom is underway in a country where this principle has been often violated.

09/13/2013EGYPTMinya, Islamists seize a Protestant church and turn it into a mosqueThe Christian community of Monshaat Baddini in the province of Samalout report that, Islamists have occupied the place of worship since August 14. The police never intervened to stop them. For almost a month, no Christian can enter. On the wall of the church an inscription reads "mosque of martyrs ."

09/11/2013VIETNAM Religions united in defence of the diocese of Vinh under attack from Communist authorities J.B. An DangCatholic, Protestant, and Buddhists religious leaders have come together to express their closeness to the local bishop and Catholic community, currently under attack by the authorities and victims of a smear campaign by official media. Unanimously appalled by the "deceitful" and "ruthless actions" of Nghe An provincial leaders, they call on the international community to defend human rights in Vietnam.

09/10/2013THAILAND - MYANMARCaritas Thailand to help the Rohingya, Burmese Muslims fleeing violence and persecutionThe end of the monsoon season will bring a new exodus, but the Thai government will not grant them refugee status. For Catholic volunteers, this is a "burning issue". For Caritas secretary general, helping them helps strengthen "our faith; he invites Catholics "to love the poor, build peace and facilitate inter-faith dialogue."

09/09/2013SYRIAMaaloula: rebels break into the village homes, kill three young ChristiansAsiaNews sources report anti-Christian violence and persecution in the village where people still speak Aramaic. Islamist insurgents have broken into homes and seized at least six young Greek-Catholics. Dead bodies are lying in the streets as a warning to the inhabitants. In Damascus, the local Church tries to help the refugees, but "many families have been stranded in their homes. Nothing is known about them."

04/16/2014MYANMARBenedict Rogers: My Easter in Myanmar, the land where I became a Catholic Francis Khoo Thwe The Asian director of Christian Solidarity Worldwide speaks of his special bond with the country and the Archbishop of Yangon. Water as an element of purification, which unites Catholics and Buddhists who are celebrating major holidays together in 2014. The universality of the Church "does not mean uniformity", but appreciation of the local culture. The Burmese Church is "a vibrant Church".

04/08/2014PHILIPPINESFilipino Bishops call for respect for the Supreme Court, but reiterate life's sacrednessThe highest court in the land rules in favour of the Reproductive Health Act, but nullifies some of its provisions, thus acknowledging the principle of conscientious objection. The law bans therapeutic abortion but encourages couples to have no more than two children. For its part, the Catholic Church will continue "to uphold the sacredness of human life [. . .] from conception to natural death."

04/04/2014VATICANPope: today, perhaps more than ever, Christians, like the prophets are persecuted The history of persecution "ends, in the end, again, as the Lord: with a Resurrection, but through the Cross." "Many thinkers in the Church were persecuted". "There's the death penalty or imprisonment for the having the Gospel at home, for teaching the Catechism, today, in some parts". Father Matteo Ricci, an evangelizer of China, "was not understood. But he obeyed like Jesus."

04/03/2014FRANCE - IRAQChaldean Patriarch on the uncertain future of eastern Christians, a bridge between the West and Islam Mar Louis Raphael I SakoThe wars in Iraq, Libya and Afghanistan have made things worse for their peoples, especially minorities. As Western policies have been a failure, fundamentalism has grown with the Arab Spring losing out to extremism. Muslim authorities have a role in protecting rights and religious freedom. The presence of Christians in the Middle East is crucial for Muslims.

03/28/2014MYANMARArchbishop of Yangon: A" transparent" census "great opportunity" for peace Francis Khoo ThweArchbishop Charles Bo comments on the upcoming government census, the first in 30 years. It "sets the stage" for the process of "peace and development". An invitation to preserve the "common good". Controversy over non- inclusion of Rohingya among recognized ethnic groups.

09/06/2013PAKISTAN - VATICAN - SYRIAPakistani Muslims heed pope's "encouraging words" about peace in Syria Jibran KhanMany in Pakistan agree with and support Pope Francis's call for a day of prayer and fasting. A member of the Islamic Ideology Council praises the work done by Christians "whom we join in prayer." For Islamabad Bishop, the pope's cry for peace reiterated across the entire diocese.

09/05/2013VIETNAMNghe An: police cracks down hard on Catholics protestAt least 300 people were protesting against the detention of two Catholics who have been in jail since June without charges. A thousand police agents were involved, firing in the air and hitting protesters with electric batons. Many of the most seriously injured were transferred to Hanoi. Dozens of protesters are arrested.

09/04/2013VIETNAMVinh: record applications to enter major seminarySome 410 young people took part on 1 August in aptitude tests. Forty from among them will be selected to study to become priests. Female vocations are also growing. The basic tests are designed to know the motivations behind such a choice and hold back those who are motivated by "worldly ambitions."

09/02/2013CHINAProbe into Zhou Yongkang and Jiang Jiemin shows party torn by infighting Chen WeijunThe powerful former Public Security chief, who set up China's modern repression apparatus, comes under investigation for "economic crimes". One of his closest aide is also being investigated for taking bribes in the past ten years. Such house-cleaning hides factional infighting meant to eliminate all opposition to President Xi Jinping's rule.

09/02/2013TURKMENISTANJehovah's Witness gets 18 months in prison as conscientious objectorAt least ten religious believers have been arrested since the start of the year for the same reason. Many of them have appealed to the United Nations, but the authorities continue to carry out raids and arrests. The Baptist community has also been punished for organising a summer camp for children.

08/30/2013VIETNAMHanoi frees thousands on Independence Day but no political prisonersNo one convicted for "propaganda against the state", grounds used against dissenters, is included in the amnesty list. Two Christian members from the persecuted Montagnard community in the Central Highlands are released. Celebrations are set for next Monday, 2 September, to mark 68 years since Ho Chi Minh's historic 1945 speech.

08/28/2013SOUTH KOREA'Martyrs routes' in Seoul to revive the faith and the relationship with God Joseph Yun Li-sunAs part of the "Month of Martyrs" in September, something the Korean Church has celebrated for several years, the Archdiocese of the capital has prepared a plan it hopes will raise awareness among the faithful about the city's holy places. Bishop Yeom: "There is so much to discover, and through the example of the martyrs we can enhance the dialogue with the Lord."

08/28/2013VIETNAMFr. Dominique, sowing seeds of faith in Vietnam amid war and Communist persecution Thanh ThuyIn the '70s, at the time of the conflict, he led his community to a safe place and founded a new parish. Imprisoned by the regime authorities, he was able to keep the "spirit" alive following the example of Card. Van Thuan. His witness led to several vocations, which have enabled the diocese of Saigon to grow.

08/24/2013MYANMARMyanmar Catholics: religious freedom and inter-ethnic peace as bases for social and economic development Charles Bo - Benedict RogersThe archbishop of Yangon and an activist and Burma expert make an appeal to this effect. Focusing on the persecution of Muslims and the danger of an Islamist response, they stress that economic development depends on individual freedoms, social peace and lower ethnic tensions. The two look at the two years since the first, historic meeting between Thein Sein and Aung San Suu Kyi.